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Mission Statement

The American Nystagmus Network, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 to serve the needs and interests of those affected by nystagmus. It is an outgrowth of the Nystagmus E-Mail List introduced on the Internet two years earlier to provide information on a wide variety of topics pertaining to nystagmus.

Although nystagmus takes several forms and is associated with a wide variety of different conditions and sometimes with no other condition, nystagmus generally refers to involuntary eye movement which usually results in some degree of visual loss. The degree and direction of eye movement, amount of visual loss and resulting impairment varies greatly from person to person.

ANN seeks to provide technical and experiential information about nystagmus and its manifestations, but not medical advice. Information relates to a wide range of concerns including without limit, diagnosis, type, visual effects,  non-visual effects, tests and available treatment. It  also covers heredity, research, and known statistical data on nystagmus.

ANN also seeks to provide help in coping with nystagmus through the exchange of information and ideas, guidance and counseling. ANN seeks to respond to specific problems and concerns and provide feedback which may be used to minimize adverse effects of nystagmus. Coping challenges and adjustments are prevalent throughout life for those with nystagmus and their families. It can be especially challenging after initial diagnosis,  and throughout early childhood development and primary education. It is commonly troublesome to social development during adolescence, when dating and obtaining a driver's license can be so important. The challenge of coping with nystagmus continues through adulthood. Preparing for careers and finding jobs involve choices which may be strongly influenced and determined by functional vision and appearance. Lifestyle and personal adjustments, beyond earning a livelihood, impose a never ending need for coping skills.

ANN not only seeks to serve those affected by nystagmus, but also to provide useful information to persons with a professional or personal interest as well. These include health care providers, educators, researchers, and other relevant private and public institutional personnel.

In following its mission, ANN will utilize all media, publish and distribute materials to specific audiences, maintain an Internet website, and hold periodic conferences. ANN will pursue funding from its members and friends and from organizations, agencies, and institutions, public and private, sensitive to its mission.

ANN, Inc. Caveat: Though discussions on specific problems are permissible and expected, remember that no posting here shall constitute professional health care or medical advice, and you should never rely on any contribution to this, or any, Internet discussion forum on important medical or professional health care questions.  Indeed, no Internet discussion forum is a substitute for the careful advice and treatment of a competent professional health care provider or doctor.

ANN, Inc. is a volunteer, nonprofit organization for persons and families involved with nystagmus. ANN, Inc. does not diagnose or treat, or provide professional counseling. It is involved in self-help, while trying to promote research and education, among other goals contained in its mission statement.